Volleyball equipment: Find out the different equipment needed for volleyball and their function

Whether you are playing indoors or outdoors, volleyball equipment facilitates the smooth flow of the game. Although players only use their arms and hands, these tools come in handy to protect them during play. Discover the range of gear available for the sport and their usage.

William G. Morgan invented volleyball in 1895. The objective of the sport is to hit the ball over the net and into the opposing team's territory. A team of six players stands on each side of the net, and the team that attains 25 points with a 2-point difference wins the set. Find out the volleyball equipment used in the sport.

Volleyball equipment list

A basic volleyball game requires a ball, a net, and poles. Sports Brief has analysed information from various sources, including Asics and Topend Sports, to compile a list of essential volleyball gear.

What is the importance of volleyball equipment? Players need the necessary gear to help them play well and protect them during games. Here is a breakdown of all volleyball equipment and their use.

Net

The volleyball net is mandatory for indoor, outdoor, and beach volleyball equipment. A standard net measures 32 feet in length and 39 inches in height. In men's games, the net is suspended eight feet off the ground, while for women, it is seven feet and four inches above.

Ball

What materials are used to make a volleyball? Indoor balls are made from leather and moulded together. Balls used for outdoor games are stitched and made from water-resistant material.

Poles

The volleyball poles are among the most significant volleyball equipment. They are primarily used to hold up the net. The poles are made of steel or aluminium and measure between 10.5 and 16 feet in height. They are designed to withstand adverse weather conditions and strains for the duration.

Volleyball court

One of the most essential volleyball equipment and facilities is the volleyball court. The space where the game is played measures approximately 9 meters by 18 meters and is divided into two equal parts for each team.

Players cannot step beyond the centre line during play. A 3-metre line from and parallel to the centre line of each half indicates the point in front from which a back player may not drive the ball over the net.

Volleyball equipment and attire

Players' attire depends on whether they are playing indoors or outdoors. Here is a list of apparel and gear worn by volleyball athletes.

Jerseys

Volleyball jerseys or t-shirts are made of light, synthetic material to keep players comfortable throughout the game. Because of the heat, outdoor players sometimes prefer sleeveless jerseys.

In American professional volleyball, teams wear the same colour jerseys that are numbered at the back. However, the libero wears a different-coloured shirt to differentiate them from the others. They are a defensive specialist who only plays in the back row.

Shorts

Volleyball shorts should allow the players to move freely without restriction. Most are made of spandex, which stretches to accommodate movement. Athletes should also consider wearing absorbent shorts to keep them dry throughout the game.

Socks

Most indoor volleyball players wear socks. According to Sock Rock, volleyball socks are long to protect players from court burns or blisters and are made of spandex and polyester to absorb moisture.

Shoes

Volleyball players make numerous lateral and vertical movements, necessitating a shoe design that allows free movement. The factors to consider when selecting a shoe include:

Traction

Volleyball shoes must have an excellent grip to avoid unnecessary falls. Rubber soles provide the best traction, allowing players to shoot and pass freely.

Cushioning

Volleyball players jump a lot during play, and their shoes need effective cushioning to absorb some of the impact as they move.

Weight

The recommended volleyball shoes should weigh between 300 and 400 grams (for men) and 200-300 grams for women. Light shoes help the players jump higher.

Breathability

Like all the other volleyball equipment and gear, shoes should enhance free air circulation. Players should consider shoes made of breathable material to keep their feet cool as they play.

Ankle braces

Ankle braces are among the most essential volleyball equipment for training and play at any level. The most common injuries that volleyball athletes suffer from include strains, sprains, and fractures. Body Prox explains that braces protect against these and enhance speedy movement on the volleyball court.

Arm sleeves

Most players today prefer to wear arm sleeves rather than long-sleeved t-shirts. Besides looking cool, the sleeves help the athlete quickly receive the ball and secure the hand in case of an attack. Depending on the player's position, they can wear sleeves together or one at a time.

The sleeves also prevent burns during a fall and protect the skin and forearm. Compression sleeves help recover muscle by supporting the elbow joints and arm muscles.

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Volleyball

Knee pads

Volleyballers wear knee pads below the knee to reduce injuries, such as those sustained while diving for the ball. The pads protect the surrounding muscles and ligaments, allowing the player to perform optimally.

Volleyball equipment for hitting

Volleyball trainees can practice their skills using various equipment to help players improve their hitting skills. These include:

Quad blocker

The tool comprises four units (blocks) attached to a volleyball net. They have a foam-padded top that helps to improve the player's hitting accuracy.

Rectangular blocking pad

This rectangular tool creates a monster block during volleyball practice sessions. It has two reinforced hand straps with plastic moulding for improved control. It simulates game-like scenes to help the players improve their blocking skills.

Frequently asked questions

These volleyball attire and tools serve different purposes, providing support and protection to the players. Here are some frequently asked questions about volleyball equipment and description:

What is the main equipment in a volleyball match?

A volleyball match needs a net, poles, and a ball. Players wear various apparel to protect sensitive body parts and enhance their movement on the court.

What is the size of a volleyball net?

A standard volleyball net is 32 feet long and 39 inches high. For me, the net is suspended eight feet off the ground, while women's nets are seven feet and four inches above.

Sports Brief published an article listing sports similar to volleyball. Some of these sports have rules identical to those of volleyball, while others differ. What are some sports similar to volleyball?

Beach volleyball is played on the beach and follows the same rules as volleyball. Other sports include football and biribol. The complete list of sports like volleyball is in the above article.